Wead Family Records

A curated collection of historic documents and personal heritage.

War of 1812 Land Grants

After the War of 1812, Congress set aside millions of acres of public land as bounty land for veterans. Each qualified soldier received a quarter-section (160 acres) in the Illinois Military Tract. Veterans like James Wade and Ebenezer Wead were granted these lands for their service. Many soldiers never moved to these frontier lands—selling their warrants to speculators instead.

Patent document for James Wade

Ebenezer Wead’s Land Warrant

This 18th‑century warrant allowed Ebenezer Wead to survey and claim land in Pennsylvania. The document shows the approval for two hundred acres in Lyttelton Township, signed by the Proprietaries and Surveyor General.

Ebenezer Wead land warrant page 1 Ebenezer Wead land warrant page 2

Civil War Discharge

John Steele Wead served in the Civil War. His honorable discharge papers shown below mark the end of his service and the recognition of his contributions. The discharge document, issued by the Union Army, details his release and final pay.

Civil War discharge papers for John Steele Wead

About & Resume

Jimmy Wead is a seasoned design/build manager with decades of experience in the structural steel industry. He has led teams in designing, pricing, and building complex steel structures from the anchor bolts up.

This site preserves the legacy of the Wead family and their contributions to American history. If you would like to know more about Jimmy’s professional background, feel free to explore the resume details below.